OML

“It is not…necessary to avoid massage the day before or the day after chemotherapy, assuming that the practitioner is trained to adjust their work in a way that will be safe and supportive for the client.”Gayle MacDonald

Who is Oncology Massage Limited (OML)?

Oncology Massage Limited (OML) is a nationally and internationally recognised not for profit training charity. It is dedicated to training fully qualified massage and Bowen therapists to safely and effectively treat those with a diagnosis or history of cancer. OML aims to ensure national benchmarks and standards of care are met by its graduate Oncology Massage Therapists. The four module program is based on a program that has been running for more than 10 years in the United States.

Importantly, formal training in this specialised area provides Oncology Massage Therapists with the awareness and expertise to modify and adjust a conventional massage for the client with a history or diagnosis of cancer while being mindful of any contra-indications for massage. This ensures the provision of a safe and effective treatment for the client.

OML are leaders on the world stage, with a nationally standardised training program for Oncology Massage Therapists in Australia and New Zealand. Globally, we are the only Oncology Massage training organisation that can offer the same program across their entire country and therefore demand the same standards of care and professionalism from the therapists we train.

OML's training programs are internationally recognised by the Society for Oncology Massage - S4OM. We proudly uphold the standards of the Society for Oncology Massage (S4OM), which exists to support and educate massage therapists, consumers and health professionals about the value and specific considerations and applications of oncology massage. Their vision is to support the safe delivery of massage to people who have been diagnosed with cancer, to promote an oncology massage education standard and to collaborate in research are values that are evident in OML's operations.

OML has a comprehensive facilitator training program that requires an advanced level of Oncology Massage training and experience, advance MLD training, a Cert IV in Training and Assessment, and completion of our internal training process. This program involves attendance at a minimum of four of each module, with increasing levels of responsibilities as they progress, and then bi-annual performance appraisals. This level of facilitator training is vital to maintain the survivorship, treatment and psychological management in a professional and consistent manner.

If you are a massage therapist, qualified Bowen or other tactile therapist and would like to specialise in Oncology Massage please visit the OM1 page to find out more about our training modules or Contact Us.

What does medical research say about Oncology Massage?

For symptom management, research has shown Oncology Massage improves the quality of life for people with a history or diagnosis of cancer. It reduces the side effects experienced from conventional treatment of cancer and the symptoms of the disease process itself (Cassileth and Vickers, 2004)

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Testimonials

It was a real comfort on my neck and scars. It felt good to have the gentle touch. I really appreciate being asked to take part, great experience!

Ellen (Client), VIC, November 2014

If you are interested in connecting with others in a meaningful, rewarding way, OM is the way. It has made me aware of how much more there is to learn, and I have learnt valuable tools and information relating to cancer patients.

Maryanne (Student), QLD, April 2016

Very informative. The more people out there who know/understand caring for someone with cancer/illness, the better!

Kerri (Student), ACT, July 2016

Facilitators worked together so well; encouraged and supported the participants tremendously; content was extensive and well presented, good science of theory and practice. Loved and appreciated all of the tips given, appreciated the emphasis on looking after ourselves physically, emotionally, spiritually. ...

Julia (Student), NSW, April 2016

The techniques can be applied in numerous instances - not just oncology. Support for oncology patients is greatly needed in rural and remote Australia.

Annie (Student), VIC, September 2016

Wonderful, very realxing. A lot of care was taken with taking my medical history which was appreciated. I have no experience with massage except deep tissue. This was a great experience.

Sandra (Client), ACT, November 2014

Enjoyed the massage immensely. Leanne was confident, thorough, very fluid, great pressure, lovely hands. It felt like she was very experienced.

Karen (Client), QLD, November 2014

I would recommend this program because there is too much fear and stigma surrounding "cancer" and yet we have all been touched or know someone who has.

Linda (Student), VIC, September 2016

Very professional, attentive, caring and friendly. Best massage techniques!

Maurice (Client), QLD, November 2014

Thank you so much for sharing your knowledge. Iím less scared of facing the end of life and helping people at the end of life.

Takako (Student), NSW, April 2016

I loved it, it was so relaxing. Richard made me feel very comfortable and I can say he was very gentle. I could have one like this every week.

Anonymous (Client), VIC, November 2014

Terrific experience, I had no idea this could be so relaxing. Leanne was very professional and had superb mannerism. Will definitely have more massages.

Anonymous (Client), QLD, November 2014

If you are interested in connecting with others in a meaningful, rewarding way, OM is the way. It has made me aware of how much more there is to learn, and I have learnt valuable tools and information relating to cancer patients.

Maryanne (Student), QLD, April 2016

I would definitely recommend this course to any RM, as it reinforces all previous learning, plus gives you a whole new perspective of what can be done

Alison (Student), NSW, July 2016

[I would recommend the program] for anyone interested in this field of healing and massage. Very profound and meaningful work.

Ruth (Student), NSW, April 2016

Excellent technique and pressure in movements. Thorough linkage of each system and connective tissues.

Priscilla (Client), QLD, November 2014

Elsie is a very lovely therapist and I was very comfortable from the very start. She always asked about my comfort and her hands were very gentle. It was perfect pressure and very soothing and relaxing.

The use of Oncology Massage Ltd (OM Ltd) materials requires OM Ltd consent. This permission is required to use any OM Ltd materials, available both on the website and materials not available on the website. Contact Us Att: Operations manager